A recent visit by oil marketers to the Port Harcourt Refinery Company in Rivers State has sparked optimism as they predict the commencement of refined petroleum product releases later this month.
Members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, representing dealers, shared that the refurbishment of the refinery is near completion.
In line with earlier hints from Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, the facility is expected to be operational soon.
Although the initial timeline set for operations has not been met, officials from NNPC Ltd stated in Abuja on Wednesday that crucial safety and regulatory tests are currently underway at the plant.
Oil marketers, having inspected the facility firsthand and received information from refinery workers, are confident about the imminent release of products.
Tekena Ikpaki, the Port Harcourt Branch Chairman of IPMAN, mentioned during a phone conversation that the refinery management has assured dealers of the impending commencement of operations.
Addressing delays, Ikpaki stated, “There are minor mechanical and electrical issues needing completion, especially on the electrical front. However, there are no significant concerns. The refinery has received the necessary raw materials, but production is pending.”
He added, “Based on our observations, the refinery is poised to begin production soon, possibly before the end of the month.”
Reflecting on the progress made, Ikpaki expressed optimism, saying, “The speed at which things are moving indicates a quick start. Production could commence anytime now.”
Highlighting the status of other refineries, Kyari previously affirmed that mechanical work had concluded at the Warri, Kaduna, and Port Harcourt facilities. He assured that the Kaduna refinery would be operational by December.
Providing insights into the readiness of the Port Harcourt refinery, Kyari assured essential tests are being conducted before full production initiation.
An anonymous senior management official confirmed the refinery’s readiness, emphasizing the importance of completing mandatory safety and regulatory assessments before market supply.
The extensive rehabilitation work at the Port Harcourt refinery, costing about $1.5bn, commenced over two years ago. The project covers engineering, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning phases to revitalize the facility.
Market watchers eagerly await the revival of indigenous refineries like the PHRC, operated by NNPC, and Dangote’s refinery for a boost in domestic refined petroleum products supply.